16 Apr Creating Connectivity Between Two Lonestar States, Texas and Israel, on Issues of Sustainability and Peace.

 The 14^th Annual Israeli Block Party put on by Texas Hillel on Apr. 15 was held during rain, cloud cover and shine.  With attendance estimated at almost 1,500, the University of Texas eastside campus was awash with music and community spirit.

“We always try to create a community get together and fun event.” Zach Goodman, 2012 Marketing Chair said.  “This year, the connectivity between the two states of Israel and Texas was the theme.”

Hillel, with over 6 committees and 100 volunteers focused this years’ pro-Israeli outreach event on the similarities between the two “lonestar states.” Texas and Israel share many environmental, and product manufacturing innovations.  In the Environmental Booth I found much on cutting edge Israeli technology.

“Green Technology from Israel” read the poster from Blue Star, Inc. “We share.”

And they do. A handout I picked up from the Hasbara Fellowship showed the wastewater treatment technologies implemented by Israeli companies that have increased the capacities of Mexico’s sewage plants by as much as 150%.  This technology, along with the installment of drip irrigators developed in Israel in 1959, and desalination techniques selected by UNICEF help retain and deliver fresh drinking water to regions in the world without other reliable sources. With water restrictions fresh on central Texan minds, conserving water resources is a high priority among state legislators.

Texas State Representative Elliot Naishtat would agree.  Although hurrying to buy tickets for falafel and fries from Moses’ Felafel cart was more on his mind yesterday afternoon.

The Felafel Trailer, run by engaged couple, Samuel Haviv and Laura Romero, first appeared on the JCAA parking lot entrance early in the year.  This move to UT’s east campus for the Israeli Block Party marked its inaugural voyage “off campus.”

“I’m thrilled to be the only food served at the event,” Haviv said. 

Families were in larger attendance this year, according to past Chairman, Paul Kleiman.

“There’s more family traffic because we were able to hold the event on a Sunday instead of mid week.  And the live music all day is another added perk.  Students studying needs restrict noise during the week.”

 A climbing wall, Texas-Israel Chamber of Commerce showcase, Photography Booth by David Finkel, and gifts from Israel and Congregation Agudas Achim’s gift shop rounded out the event. Christians United for Israel displayed items of religious similarities, while The David Project offered ideas and information on connecting college students to Israel advocacy.

Across the street was another table, hosted by a member of the Palestinian Solidarity Committee, Sahand Arshadmansab, who doesn’t feel it’s time to celebrate yet. From his perspective he may be right, but then I spotted the solar electronic charging station further back on UT’s campus and this thought struck me. Technology, information, and education are necessary steps toward a shared sustainable future and while I’m not so sure focusing on the past with hurt and regret will get us there, I am sure the Israeli Block Party offered all of us many things to celebrate and connect to.